The New York Jets possess one of the league's least explosive offenses and that won't change until Shonn Greene is no longer the team's starting running back. That's why the franchise shouldn't hesitate to sacrifice future draft picks to trade up for Trent Richardson.
Rich Cimini of ESPN New York reports that the Jets have contacted the Crimson Tide star to ensure they had his correct information in case a trade occurs on draft day. It's a clear indication the Jets have at least considered moving up.
Richardson has established himself as an extremely rare talent. In today's NFL, where teams focus on building high-powered passing attacks, the fact that he's still projected to go in the first five selections says a lot about his talent level. There's a chance no other running back gets taken in Round 1.
He gained more than 2,000 total yards and scored 24 touchdowns in his only season as the starter at Alabama. Those numbers were accumulated while playing in the SEC, the home of college football's best defenses, so they aren't a fluke.
Richardson's ability to contribute in every aspect on offense makes him invaluable.
He can pound out yards between the tackles or get to the outside and outrun defensive backs. He's also able to make plays as a receiver out of the backfield.
Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of his game is that he can block, which means he doesn't have to get taken off the field on obvious passing downs.
The difference between him and Greene when it comes to carrying an offense is enormous. With Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow under center, the Jets are doomed without a strong rushing attack and Richardson can actually provide it.
In order to become serious contenders, the Jets need to make a bold move. They aren't going to find a player that will be able to make the same impact of Richardson with the 16th pick, so they should be willing to take the leap to move up.
It will be costly, there's no doubt about that. The Jets will have to trade the No. 16 pick along with a sizable package of other picks from this year's draft and in the future, but that doesn't mean it's not a risk worth taking.
Another running back with the same amount of all-around talent won't be available later in the draft, on the trade market or even in next year's class. Right now is New York's best chance to provide a massive boost to its offense and they have the pieces to get it done.
Instead of sitting back and letting the opportunity slip away, which will undoubtedly lead to another lackluster season of offensive production, the Jets should be aggressive and do everything possible to move up.
Richardson would be well worth the investment and would give one of the league's best fanbases reason to get excited about next season.
Patrick Davis Tyler Eckford Mark Fraser Andy Greene zach Parise bryce Salvador
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